Chapter 5: Avoiding Hidden Costs & Change Orders
One of the biggest frustrations homeowners face during a remodel is the surprise of hidden costs and unexpected change orders. At Trends Kitchen & Bathroom Specialists, our goal is to eliminate that frustration. We believe that a remodel should be exciting—not stressful. That’s why our estimating and project management process is built to reduce surprises, protect your budget, and deliver exactly what we promise.
Why Hidden Costs Happen
Most hidden costs stem from two issues:
1. Vague estimates – Contractors provide lump sums with little explanation, leaving plenty of room for add-ons later.
2. Poor planning – Without a design and detailed scope of work, critical items are missed, and homeowners end up paying extra once the project is underway.
For example, “replace shower” might be listed on an estimate for $10,000. But what does that really include? Does it cover waterproofing? A custom niche? A frameless glass enclosure? If not, each of those items becomes a costly change order later.
How We Prevent Surprises
At Trends Kitchen & Bathroom Specialists, we take a proactive approach:
- Line-Item Estimates – Every proposal we give breaks down the cost of demo, prep, materials, labor, and finishes. Nothing is hidden.
- Selection-Based Pricing – We price your project based on the actual fixtures and finishes you choose. That way, your budget reflects reality—not guesses.
- Design-Driven Scope – Our design process ensures that every element of the remodel is accounted for before construction begins.
- Transparency in Communication – If there are potential risks, like structural damage or plumbing code upgrades, we tell you upfront and explain how they might affect the project.
Case Study: Preventing Change Orders
A homeowner hired us for a master bathroom remodel. They had previously received an “all-inclusive” bid from another contractor for $38,000. On paper, it looked appealing. But when we reviewed it, we noticed major gaps:
- No mention of waterproofing in the shower.
- No allowance for a glass enclosure.
- Basic fixtures only, with no brand specified.
- Vanity and countertop listed as “TBD.”
In reality, those missing items would have easily added $7,000–$10,000 in change orders.
When we prepared our estimate, it came in at $45,000 mid-range, fully detailed:
- Demolition, backerboard, and waterproofing included.
- Floating shower bench and Infinity niche priced in.
- Frameless glass shower enclosure specified.
- Kohler fixtures matched throughout.
- Double vanity with quartz top included.
The client chose us because they understood that while our number was higher upfront, it was also honest, complete, and dependable. When the project wrapped, their final invoice matched the original estimate—no hidden costs, no surprises.
Why This Matters
Remodeling is an investment, and trust is everything. Homeowners deserve to know what they’re paying for. By eliminating vague allowances, hidden exclusions, and surprise change orders, we give our clients peace of mind and the confidence to enjoy the process. With our system, the price we quote is the price you can plan around.
— Damon Fowler
Owner, Trends Kitchen & Bathroom Specialists